Happy St. Patrick’s Day

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from all of us here in the Chicago Dad’s Group.  St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday that is rife with tradition and opportunities for family fun.

For example here in Chicago it is always fun to make the trek in to see the river dyed green.  This is something that we think should be on everyone’s bucket list.  In case you missed it this year, here are a handful of other ideas we think make fun traditions on this spring holiday:

1. If the weather permits go watch a parade – There is almost always a parade going on somewhere on St. Patrick’s Day. The kids can be loud, the family can get all decked out in green and beside any potential parking fee this can be free family fun.
2. Make a Leprechaun Trap – This is a great way to engage kids creativity.  Let them design it and set it… they are not likely to catch a leprechaun, but those pesky sprites might just set off their trap and leave your kid a treat for the troubles.
3. Go On a Shamrock Hunt – We all could use a little luck and while you may not have an abundance of real shamrocks,  some colored paper or a box of Lucky Charms may substitute just fine.
4. Learn an Irish Tune and Sing it Badly with your Kids – A couple of our favorites are Danny Boy and When Irish Eyes Are Smiling.  For extra hilarity try singing in your best/worst Irish accent.
5. Have an Irish Meal – Typically Corned Beef and Cabbage is the way to go for this tradition.  However there are a whole host of foods you can dye green and call it an Irish feast, pancakes and waffles come to mind.

We’d love to hear from you.  Leave a comment down below with your favorite St. Patrick’s Day tradition.